Selling Soon? What to Do Before Your Property Hits the Market

Selling a home does not start when the listing goes live. In many cases, the groundwork done beforehand can make a meaningful difference to how buyers respond once the property reaches the market.

For sellers along the Western Seaboard, the first step is to look at the property through a buyer’s eyes.

Small maintenance issues that have become easy to ignore — chipped paint, leaking taps, loose handles, tired silicone, damaged fittings or an untidy garden — can create the impression that a home has not been well maintained. Most of these do not require major renovation, but addressing them before photography and viewings can help the property feel cared for and move-in ready.

Decluttering is just as important. Buyers need to be able to imagine themselves living in the space, which becomes harder when rooms feel crowded or overly personalised. Clear countertops, simplify décor, pack away excess furniture and create as much sense of space as possible.

Presentation also matters enormously, particularly because many buyers will first experience your property online. Clean windows, bright rooms, fresh bedding, tidy outdoor areas and good natural lighting can significantly improve both listing photographs and first impressions during viewings.

This is also a good time to start gathering the practical information that may be needed during the sales process. Depending on the property, this could include approved building plans, rates and levy information, body corporate or homeowners’ association documentation, compliance certificates and information relating to alterations or additions.

One of the most important steps, however, is speaking to a property professional before spending heavily on improvements.

Not every renovation adds equal value. Sometimes a simple repaint, minor repair, garden clean-up or staging adjustment will deliver far more benefit than an expensive upgrade that may not necessarily increase the selling price.

A successful sale is often built before the first buyer walks through the door.

Taking the time to prepare your home properly means that when it reaches the market, it can make the strongest possible first impression — both online and in person.

Thinking of Selling on the Western Seaboard?

Before you renovate, repaint or put your property on the market, speak to a local Century 21 property professional.

We can help you identify what is worth doing, what buyers are looking for, and how to prepare your home for a strong market launch.

Century 21 Western Seaboard
A Worldwide Leader in Real Estate